Dietary conjugated linoleic acid improves antioxidant capacity in broiler chicks

Fatty acids characterisation by GC-MS, antiglycation effect at multiple stages and protection of erythrocytes cells from oxidative damage induced by glycation of albumin of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill seed oil cultivated in Eastern Morocco: Experimental and computational approaches

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill is frequently observed in the Moroccan traditional medicinal system, where these approaches are employed to mitigate the onset of diabetes and the subsequent complications it may entail.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this research was to examine the effectiveness of Opuntia ficus-indica seed oil in preventing diabetic complications. Specifically, the study assessed its ability to counteract glycation at various stages, protected red blood cells from the harmful effects of glycated albumin, and inhibited pancreatic lipase digestive enzymes to understand its potential antihyperglycemic properties. Additionally, the study aimed to identify the chemical components responsible for these effects, evaluate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and conduct computational investigations such as molecular docking.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The assessement of Opuntia ficus-indica seed oil antiglycation properties involved co-incubating the extract oil with a bovine serum albumin-glucose glycation model. The study investigated various stages of glycation, incorporating fructosamine (inceptive stage), protein carbonyls (intermediate stage), and AGEs (late stage). Additionally, measurement of β-amyloid aggregation of albumin was performed using Congo red, which is specific to amyloid structures. Additionally, the evaluation of oil's safeguarding effect on erythrocytes against toxicity induced by glycated albumin included the measurement of erythrocyte hemolysis, lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione. The fatty acid of Opuntia ficus-indica seed oil were analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The in vitro evaluation of antihyperglycemic activity involved the use of pancreatic lipase enzyme, while the assessement of antioxidant capability was carried out through the utilization of the ABTS and FRAP methods. The in vitro assessement of the denaturation of albumin activity was also conducted. In conjunction with the experimental outcomes, computational investigations were undertaken, specifically employing ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) analysis. Furthermore, molecular docking was utilized to predict antioxidant and antiglycation mechanisms based on protein targets.

RESULTS

In vitro glycation assays, Opuntia ficus-indica seed oil displayed targeted inhibitory effects at multiple distinct stages. Within erythrocytes, in addition to mitigating hemolysis and lipid peroxidation induced by glycated albumin. GC-MS investigation revealed a richness of fatty acids and the most abundant compounds are Linoleic acid (36.59%), Palmitic acid (20.84%) and Oleic acid (19.33%) respectively. The findings of antioxidant ability showed a remarkable activity on FRAP and ABTS radicals. This oil showed a pronounced inhibitory impact (p < 0.001) on pancreatic lipase enzyme. It also exerted a notibale inhibition of albumin denaturation, in vitro.

CONCLUSION

The identified results were supported by the abundant compounds of fatty acids unveiled through GC-MS analysis, along with the computational investigation and molecular docking.

Effect of fermented tomato pomace on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal microflora in broiler chickens

Solid-state fermentation is a useful method for the utilization of the agri-industrial residues. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of tomato pomace (TP) and Aspergillus niger-fermented tomato pomace (FTP) on the growth performance, some carcass traits, antioxidant status, and intestinal microflora in broiler chickens. A total of 140 Ross 308 one-day-old male chicks were allocated to one of four treatment groups consisting of five replicates of seven chicks each. Chicks were fed ad libitum with the corn-soybean based basal diet (control), the basal diet supplemented with 0.25 g/kg synthetic antioxidant, 10 g/kg TP or 10 g/kg FTP for 42 days. Dietary TP increased serum glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) but did not affect the growth performance. Dietary inclusion of FTP improved the feed conversion ratio and raised serum GPx and SOD. Carcass traits, malondialdehyde level, pH, and color of breast meat and cecal microflora were not affected by dietary treatments. The results of the study showed that TP can be used as a natural antioxidant in broiler diets without a detrimental effect on growth performance. Dietary FTP can be suggested as an alternative to synthetic antioxidants with beneficial effects on growth performance and antioxidant capacity.

Dietary supplementation of Aloe vera extract modulates rumen microbes and improves the functional food value of milk by altering phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and fatty acid profile in lactating goats

Twenty-four cross-breed (Alpine × Beetal) lactating goats (average body weight: 37.5 ± 2.7 kg and milk yield: 1.78 ± 0.31 kg/day) were chosen for the ninety days duration of the experiment and divided into three groups following a completely randomized design. Group I acted as control (T0) and received only a basal diet as per requirement, whereas group II (T1) and group III (T2) received basal diet added with Aloe vera extract at 2% and 4% of dry matter intake (DMI), respectively. Total phenolic compounds (TPC) and milk antioxidant status were higher (p < 0.05) in T1 and T2 than T0. Relative abundance of methanogen, protozoa, Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus, and Ruminococcus flavefaciens in the rumen were lower, while Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens population was higher (p < 0.05) in T2 and T1 compared to T0. Saturated fatty acids levels in milk were lower, whereas different polyunsaturated fatty acids levels were higher (p < 0.05) in T1 and T2 than T0. Nutritional indices of milk increased in both supplemented groups. Overall, it may be concluded that dietary supplementation of Aloe vera extract at 2% and 4% of DMI may enhance the functional characteristics of milk by boosting TPC and antioxidant status, as well as the FA profile and nutritional quality indices of milk fat.

Seasonal changes in diet, immune function, and oxidative stress in three passerines inhabiting a Mediterranean climate

Oxidative status and immune function are energy-demanding traits closely linked to diet composition, particularly resource availability and nutritional value. In seasonal environments, nutrient availability and diet quality fluctuate, potentially influencing these traits. However, limited evidence exists regarding these dietary effects on immune function in seasonal environments. In this study, we employed stable isotope analysis to assess the impact of seasonal changes in niche width and trophic level (i.e., δ15N) on two immune variables (hemolysis and hemagglutination scores) and two oxidative status parameters (lipid peroxidation and total antioxidant capacity) in three passerine species: Zonotrichia capensis (omnivorous), Troglodytes aedon (insectivorous), and Spinus barbatus (granivorous). We found that hemolysis scores varied seasonally in Z. capensis, with higher values in winter compared to summer. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) also increased during the winter in Z. capensis and S. barbatus. The isotopic niche width for Z. capensis and S. barbatus was smaller in winter than in summer, with the omnivorous species exhibiting a decrease in δ15N. Despite the seasonal shifts in ecological and physiological traits in Z. capensis, we identified no correlation between immune response and TAC with trophic level. In contrast, in the granivorous S. barbatus, the lower trophic level resulted in an increase in TAC without affecting immunity. Our findings revealed that dietary shifts do not uniformly impact oxidative status and immune function across bird species, highlighting species-specific responses to seasonal changes. This underscores the importance of integrating ecological and evolutionary perspectives when examining how diet shapes avian immunity and oxidative balance.

Comparison of nutritional quality of fourteen wild Linum species based on fatty acid composition, lipid health indices, and chemometric approaches unravelling their nutraceutical potential

Fatty acid profiles of 14 Linum species was determined by GC-MS analysis to study the nutritional quality of Linum species based on fatty acid composition, lipid health indices, and chemometric approaches. L. lewisii and L. marginale found to have the highest content of ALA i.e., 65.38 % and 62.79 %, respectively, L. tenuifolium recorded the highest linoleic acid content (69.69 %), while, L. catharticum recorded highest oleic acid (27.03 %). Health indices viz. polyunsaturated fatty acids/saturated fatty acids ratio, n-6/n-3 fatty acids ratio, atherogenicity, thrombogenicity, oxidability, oxidative stability, hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic fatty acids, and peroxidisability calculated based on the fatty acid composition revealed that all the linseed species except L. aristatum, L. tenuifolium and L. hudsoniodes have healthy fatty acid composition. L. lewisii clearly emerges as a promising species followed by L. bienne with great values across multiple indices, making them as a potential candidate for dietary or nutritional interests. The lipid profile of Linum species could be well distinguished by two principal components by Principal Component Analysis (PCA).

Biomarkers of oxidative stress in broiler chickens attacked by lipopolysaccharide: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Oxidative stress (OS) constitutes a pivotal factor in the initiation and progression of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenges in broiler chickens. Increasing studies have demonstrated that Alleviation of oxidative stress seems to be a reasonable strategy to alleviate LPS-mediated afflictions in broilers. Nonetheless, the relationship between OS-related indicators and exposure to LPS remains a topic of debate. The aim of this investigation was to precisely and holistically evaluate the effect of LPS exposure on OS-associated markers. We conducted a systematic search of four electronic databases-PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane for relevant studies, and a total of 31 studies were included. The overall results showed that the LPS treatment significantly increased the levels of oxygen radicals and their products, such as malondialdehydes (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), while significantly reduced the levels of antioxidants, such as total antioxidative capacity (T-AOC), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and glutathione (GSH), in the chickens. Intriguingly, though the observed trends in alterations were not strictly correlated with LPS concentrations, the enzyme activity levels were indeed influenced by the concentration of LPS. This observation highlights the complex relationship between LPS exposure and the body's antioxidant response. Despite some limitations, all the included studies were deemed credible. Subgroup evaluations revealed that the jejunum and duodenum has demonstrated stronger antioxidant capability compared to other tissues. Overall, our study presents compelling evidence that exposure to LPS induces significant OS in chickens. And we also found that the extent of OS was related to LPS doses, target tissues, and dietary ingredients.

Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide improves the microstructure, immune function, proliferation and reduces apoptosis of thymus and spleen tissue cells of immunosuppressed mice

In order to study the effect of Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide (HEP) on the immune and antioxidation functions of immunosuppressed mice. The control group received distilled water orally and the model and experimental groups I, II, and III received 0, 80, 160, and 320 mg/kg HEP respectively for a fortnight after re-molding with cyoclphosphnalide (CTX). Compared with the control group, the secretion of IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-γ, the activity or content of T-AOC, T-SOD, and GSH-PX, and the expression of PCNA mRNA in the thymus and spleen were reduced in immunosuppressed mice (P < .05 or P < .01). Compared with immunosuppressed mice, the levels of IL-2, IFN-γ, and GSH-PX and the PCNA mRNA expression of spleen and thymus were increased (P < .05 or P < .01), and the microstructure were also obviously improved in the experimental group III. Overall, 320 mg/kg of HEP significantly improved the immune and antioxidant functions.

Effects of Catalase on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, Intestinal Morphology, and Microbial Composition in Yellow Broilers

The objective of this experiment was to study the effects of catalase (CAT) on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, and microbial composition of yellow broilers. Male Lingnan yellow broilers (360), aged 1 day, were randomly divided into control group (CON) (fed with a basic diet), R1 group (fed with basic diet + 150 U/kg catalase), and R2 group (fed with basic diet + 200 U/kg catalase). Each group had 8 replicates and 15 chickens in each replicate. The test is divided into the early stage (1–30 days) and the later stage (31–60 days). The results showed that compared with the control group, groups R1 and R2 significantly (p < 0.05) increased the weight gain and reduced (p < 0.05) the ratio of feed to gain in the early and the whole stages; prominently increased (p < 0.05) the concentration of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), the activities of CAT, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in livers, the activities of CAT and GSH-Px in serum, and CAT in the jejunum in the early and the later stages; markedly increased (p < 0.05) the villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth of the duodenum in the early and the later stages, the villus height and the villus height:crypt depth ratio of the jejunum and ileum in the early stage, and significantly lowered (p < 0.05) the crypt depth of the duodenum (in the early and the later stages), jejunum, and ileum (in early stage); memorably (p < 0.05) increased the number of total bacteria and Bacteroidetes in ceca, as well as the number of Lactobacillus in the jejunum (p < 0.05) on the 30th; significantly (p < 0.05) increased the mRNA expression of junction adhesion molecule 2 (JAM2), mucin 2 (MCU2), and occlusal protein (occludin) in the duodenum in the early stage, and increased (p < 0.05) the mRNA expression of JAM2 in the jejunum in the later stage. Collectively, adding catalase (CAT) to the diet of yellow broilers can improve the growth performance and the antioxidant capacity, promoting the integrity of intestinal morphology, optimizing the composition of intestinal microorganisms, and upregulating the mRNA expression of tight junction protein.

Effects of Coated Trace Minerals and the Fat Source on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Status, and Meat Quality in Broiler Chickens

Inorganic trace minerals may exacerbate lipid peroxidation, thereby impacting lipid metabolism. This study aimed to compare the effects of inorganic and coated trace minerals in diets with different fat sources, on the performance, slaughter characteristics, and antioxidant status of broiler chickens. A total of 576 21-day-old Abor Acres broiler birds were randomly divided into four dietary treatment groups in a 2 (non-coated and coated trace minerals)×2 (soybean oil and lard) factorial design. Each treatment was replicated 12 times (12 birds per replicate). The results showed that coated minerals significantly improved the average daily gain (ADG) in weight and the feed conversion ratio (P<0.01), increased serum iron, zinc, selenium, and thyroxine contents, increased the activities of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity, and lipoprotein lipase (P<0.05), and decreased the serum and muscle malondialdehyde (MDA) contents (P<0.01). The use of soybean oil as the fat source resulted in a high ADG in weight, a low F/G ratio, reduced serum MDA content, and drip loss of breast and leg muscles (P<0.05). In conclusion, the supplementation of coated trace minerals improved growth performance, antioxidant status, trace mineral retention within serum, and lipid metabolism. Additionally, soybean oil also improved the growth performance, antioxidant performance, and meat quality of broilers. The combination of coated trace minerals and soybean oil generated the best growth performance, antioxidant status, and meat quality characteristics.

Effects of conjugated linoleic acid on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and blood biochemical indexes of male sika deer (Cervus nippon)

ContextConjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is very important for animals and humans. CLA has many important biological functions, such as reducing fat and increasing muscle, antioxidation, improving immunity and so on. CLA requirements for deer have not been established.AimsA single-factor test was conducted to evaluate the effects of CLA supplementation on male sika deer.MethodsSixteen deer were divided in four groups (from G0 to G3) of four animals, each according to their bodyweight. Deer in G0 were fed a basal diet without CLA supplementation. Deer in G1, G2 and G3 were fed diets supplemented with CLA at concentrations of 0.25%, 0.5% and 1.0%. Growth performance, nutrient digestibility and blood biochemical indexes were measured.Key resultsThe results suggested that the average daily gain of deer increased with conjugated linoleic acid supplementation (P&lt;0.05); maximal growth performance was seen in G2. The average daily feed intake showed differences among the treatments (P&lt;0.01). The highest average daily feed intake was observed in Group G2. Feed to gain ratio (F:G) in Groups G1, G2 and G3 was different from that in Group G0 (P&lt;0.01). The digestibility of crude protein and ether extract was increased by conjugated linoleic acid concentrations (P&lt;0.05). The alkaline phosphatase activity showed a significant increase (P&lt;0.05) in Groups G2 and G3, compared with Group G0. There were significant differences in cholesterol between G1 and G2 groups (P&lt;0.05).ConclusionsThe results indicated that conjugated linoleic acid supplementation to diet plays a positive role in the growth of sika deer.ImplicationsThis experiment has shown the effects of dietary supplementation with CLA in sika deer breeding. It has layed a good foundation for the application of CLA supplementation in sika deer industry to promote the healthy development of sika deer breeding industry.

Effect of raw and fermented pomegranate pomace on performance, antioxidant activity, intestinal microbiota and morphology in broiler chickens

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of raw (PP) and fermented pomegranate pomace (FP) on performance, antioxidant activity, caecal microbiota and ileal morphology in broiler chickens. A total of 175 male broiler chicks were allocated to five treatment groups with five replicates and seven birds per replicate in a completely randomised design. Dietary treatments included a soy-corn based diet (control), diets supplemented with PP at 5 (5PP) and 10 g/kg (10PP), and diets supplemented with FP at 5 (5FP) and 10 g/kg (10FP). Dietary PP and FP did not change the body weight and feed conversion ratio. Moreover, dietary PP and FP did not alter the serum glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase levels but decreased malondialdehyde (p < 0.05) in breast meat. Caecal Clostridium perfringens count was decreased in broiler chickens of groups 10PP, 5FP and 10FP (p < 0.05). However, PP and FP had detrimental effects on the ileum morphology of broiler chicks. The villus height was decreased in the 10PP, 5FP and 10FP groups compared with the control group (p < 0.01). Crypt depth was higher in the 5PP and 10FP groups than control and 10PP groups (p < 0.01). The villus height to crypt depth ratio was also decreased in 5PP, 5FP, and 10FP groups (p < 0.01). These results suggest that PP and FP have the potential to be used in broiler diets as antioxidant and antimicrobial agents. However, detailed studies should be conducted to investigate the underlying reasons for the detrimental effects on ileal morphology.

Dietary conjugated linoleic acid supplementation alters skeletal muscle mitochondria and antioxidant status in young horses

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) improves oxidative stress and mitochondrial biogenesis in various species but has not been thoroughly investigated in horses. We collected blood and muscle samples from lightly exercising horses before and 6 and 12 wk after receiving either soybean oil (CON; n = 5) or CLA (CLA; n = 5) supplementation. Samples were analyzed for markers of mitochondrial characteristics, antioxidant status, oxidative stress, and muscle damage. Data were analyzed using a linear model with repeated measures. In the triceps brachii (TB), citrate synthase (CS) activity was higher in CON than CLA horses (P = 0.003) but was unaffected by diet in the gluteus medius (GM). Integrative (relative to mg protein) cytochrome c oxidase (CCO) activity was higher in TB than the GM (P < 0.0001), while intrinsic (relative to CS) CCO was lower in the TB than the GM (P = 0.02) and tended to be lower in CON than CLA horses (P = 0.06). Neither CS nor integrative CCO activities were affected by time. In the GM, superoxide dismutase activity tended to increase in CON through week 12 (P = 0.10). Over both muscle groups, glutathione peroxidase activity tended to be higher in CON compared with CLA at week 12 (P = 0.06). Malondialdehyde was higher in the TB than the GM (P = 0.0004) but was unaffected by diet, while serum creatine kinase activity tended to be lower in CLA than CON horses (P = 0.07). These results suggest that CLA supplementation may lead to mitochondrial adaptations and prevent myofiber perturbation in skeletal muscle of young, lightly exercised horses.

High-energy diet does not overcome the negative impact of conjugated linoleic acid on young broiler performance

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation in diets with different energy levels in broiler performance. Birds were offered a starter (1-21 d), grower (22-35 d) and finisher (36-42 d) diets; wherein soybean oil was replaced by CLA. The study consisted of a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement with two CLA levels (0 and 1%) and three energy levels (3050, 3100 and 3150 ME kg-1 diet). During the grower and finisher periods, birds were fed diets with same energy level and CLA supplementation was maintained the same. Growth performance was assessed weekly, and carcass and cuts yield were assessed at 42d. Interaction effect of CLA by energy level was observed in broiler performance and carcass yield throughout the study (p > 0.05). During the overall period (1-42 d) broiler performance was not affected by CLA (p > 0.05).However, CLA supplementation (1%) decreased weight gain (p < 0.05) at 21d, regardless of energy level, with no effects on feed intake and feed conversation rate (p > 0.05). The increase in dietary energy was not able to compensate the negative effect on growth performance of broilers supplemented with 1% CLA at the starter period.

Effects of dietary phosphorous supplementation on laying performance, egg quality, bone health and immune responses of laying hens challenged with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide

Background

Phosphorus is an essential nutrient to maintain poultry health and performance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary phosphorus levels on egg production, egg quality, bone health, immune responses of laying hens challenged with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide.

Methods

Three hundred laying hens at 28 wk were randomly divided into 2 dietary treatments with 10 replicates of 15 birds. The wheat-soybean based diets contained either 0.12% or 0.4% non-phytate phosphorus (NPP). At 32 wk of age, all the birds of each dietary treatment were injected into the abdomen with 1.5 mg/kg body weight (BW) of either LPS or saline once a day at 24-h intervals for continuous 9 d. The performance of laying hens was evaluated for 9 d. The eggs after the fifth injection were collected to value the egg quality. Three hours after the first injection, blood was collected to measure serum metabolite and immune response associated parameters. Three hours after the fifth injection, the hens were euthanized to obtain tibia, cecal tonsils and jejunum.

Results

Compared with saline-injected hens, LPS-injected hens had lower feed intake and egg production (P < 0.05). Eggshell thickness, strength, albumin height and Haugh unit were significantly increased in LPS-injected hens compared with saline-injected hens (P < 0.05). Furthermore, laying hens challenged with LPS had lower villious height/ crypt depth ration than those received saline. Serum calcium, phosphorus and SOD activities significantly decreased in the LPS-injected hens compared with the control (P < 0.05). LPS up-regulated expression of IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 in cecum, and serum concentration of MDA, IL-1β and IL-6 (P < 0.05), whereas 0.40% dietary non-phytate phosphorus supplementation significantly increased (P < 0.05) villi height/crypt depth ratio, decreased (P < 0.05) serum MDA and IFN-γ concentration compared with the 0.12% non-phytate phosphorus group.

Conclusion

In summary, this study demonstrates that 0.40% dietary non-phytate phosphorus supplementation significantly increased calcium and phosphorus levels of eggshell, increased villi height/crypt depth ratio, decreased serum MDA and IFN-γ concentration compared with the 0.12% non-phytate phosphorus groups. The results indicate that high level of dietary non-phytate phosphorus exerts a potential effect in alleviating systemic inflammation of LPS-challenged laying hens.

Efficacy of dietary supplementation of fatty acid compound on performance and production in finishing pigs

The present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of dietary supplementation of 0.5 and 1% of fatty acid (FA) compound containing conjugated linoleic acid as active component on growth performance, apparent nutrient digestibility, serum lipid profile, meat quality, and fatty acid profiles in muscle and adipose tissue in finishing pigs. A total of 90 finishing pigs ([Yorkshire × Landrace] × Duroc) were used in 5-week trial. The growth performance and nutrient digestibility were unaffected with FA supplementation. The lean percentage was greater (P = 0.05) in pigs fed FA-supplemented diet whereas the 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances value was reduced (P < 0.05) during the storage. The FA supplementation tended (P = 0.06) to reduce serum total cholesterol. However, it improved (P < 0.05) C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, saturated fatty acid, conjugated linoleic acid, and omega 3 levels and reduced (P < 0.05) C18:1, C18:2, unsaturated fatty acid, and omega 6 levels in muscle and subcutaneous adipose tissue. In conclusion, FA supplementation tended to reduce total serum cholesterol and improved lean percentage as well as meat value through enrichment of conjugated linoleic acid and omega 3 fatty acid in the muscle and adipose tissue.

The effect of conjugated linoleic acid supplements on oxidative and antioxidative status of dairy cows

Dairy cows develop frequently negative energy balance around parturition and in early lactation, resulting in excessive mobilization of body fat and subsequently in increased risk of ketosis and other diseases. Dietary conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplements are used in dairy cows mainly for their depressing effect on milk fat content, but are also proposed to have antioxidative properties. As negative energy balance is associated with oxidative stress, which is also assumed to contribute to disease development, the present study was conducted to examine effects of CLA on oxidative and antioxidative status of lactating dairy cows. German Holstein cows (primiparous n=13, multiparous n=32) were divided into 3 dietary treatment groups receiving 100g/d of control fat supplement, containing 87% stearic acid (CON; n=14), 50g/d of control fat supplement and 50g/d of CLA supplement (CLA 50; n=15), or 100g/d of CLA supplement (CLA 100; n=16). The CLA supplement was lipid-encapsulated and contained 12% of trans-10,cis-12 CLA and cis-9,trans-11 CLA each. Supplementation took place between d1 and 182 postpartum; d 182 until 252 postpartum served as a depletion period. Blood was sampled at d -21, 1, 21, 70, 105, 140, 182, 224, and 252 relative to calving. The antioxidative status was determined using the ferric-reducing ability of plasma, α-tocopherol, α-tocopherol-to-cholesterol mass ratio, and retinol. For determination of oxidative status concentrations of hydroperoxides, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), N'-formylkynurenine, and bityrosine were measured. Mixed models of fixed and random effects with repeated measures were used to evaluate period 1 (d -21 to 140) and 2 (d182-252) separately. Cows showed increased oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation during the periparturient period in terms of increased serum concentrations of hydroperoxides and TBARS, which decreased throughout lactation. During period 1, the supplemented cows had lower TBARS concentrations, which was not detectable in period 2. The other determined parameters were not affected by CLA supplementation. The obtained results show that dietary CLA supplementation in the chosen dosage, formulation, and application period had a marginal antioxidative effect in terms of lipid peroxidation in lactating dairy cows.

Effects of conjugated linoleic acid and lutein on the growth performance and immune response of broiler chickens

The effects of lutein and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on growth performance and immune response of broiler chickens were evaluated in the presence and absence of Salmonella lipopolysaccharide (LPS) immune challenge. Cobb chicks (360; 1 to 22 d of age) were used in a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of CLA (0, 1, and 2%) and lutein (0 and 50 mg/kg) dietary levels. At d 8 and 15, birds were injected with BSA to assess IgY production. At d 20, birds were injected with LPS. Samples of liver, spleen, and duodenum were collected at 3 and 16 h post-LPS challenge for RT-qPCR analysis of RXRα, RXRγ, PPARα, PPARγ, TLR-4, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-10, and IL-12 gene expression. CLA decreased BW, BW gain (BWG), and G:F from d 1 to 20, but these effects were reversed when lutein was included in the 1% CLA diet (P < 0.001). The production of IgY anti-BSA increased following a 2% CLA supplementation (P < 0.01). LPS increased the liver:BW ratio at 3 h post-injection (P < 0.001) and decreased BWG at 3, 16, and 40 h (P < 0.001). Lutein decreased plasmatic nitric oxide levels (P < 0.01). LPS downregulated PPARα mRNA in the duodenum (P = 0.02) and liver (P = 0.04), and PPARγ (P = 0.01) and RXRα (P = 0.08) in the spleen; these effects were not reversed by CLA or lutein as initially hypothesized. Although LPS upregulated IL-1β (P = 0.02) and IL-12 (P = 0.07) expression, lutein downregulated these pro-inflammatory cytokines in the liver (P = 0.03 and P = 0.07, respectively). Lutein decreased splenic (P = 0.09) but increased hepatic (P = 0.06) TLR-4 mRNA. A dietary CLA supplementation of 2% increased hepatic RXRα (P = 0.10). In conclusion, CLA decreased broiler chicken growth performance, but lutein could prevent this negative effect (depending on CLA dose). Lutein had an anti-inflammatory effect, and a 2% CLA supplementation improved the humoral immune response.

Effect of sodium butyrate on intestinal inflammatory response to lipopolysaccharide in broiler chickens

Jiang, Y., Zhang, W., Gao, F. and Zhou, G. 2015. Effect of sodium butyrate on intestinal inflammatory response to lipopolysaccharide in broiler chickens. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 389–395. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of sodium butyrate (SB) supplementation on intestinal inflammatory response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in broiler chickens. A total of 120 one-day-old chickens (Arbor Acres) were divided into two groups and fed a control diet (without SB) or 1.00 g SB kg−1 diet. Half of the chickens fed each diet were injected intra-peritoneally with 0.5 g kg−1 body weight of Escherichia coli LPS at 16, 18 and 20 d of age. The results showed that the LPS challenge decreased (P<0.05) villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth (V/C ratio), increased (P<0.01) crypt depth of the duodenum. SB supplementation increased (P<0.05) villus height, crypt depth and V/C ratio of the duodenum and jejunum, except for the crypt depth of the jejunum. The LPS challenge increased (P<0.05) myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities, intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and activated nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) levels in mucosa of the duodenum and jejunum, while decreasing (P<0.05) insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) concentrations. The LPS challenge increased (P<0.05) the mRNA levels of interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in duodenal mucosa. SB supplementation decreased (P<0.05) the MPO activities and mRNA expression of TNF-α in the duodenal mucosa, and the activated NF-κB levels in mucosa of the duodenum and jejunum. There were no significant interactions between dietary SB and LPS on the histomorphology of the small intestine and those inflammatory mediators except for MPO and ICAM-1 in duodenal mucosa (P<0.05). The results indicate that SB supplementation could improve the intestinal morphology and function of broiler chickens and partially attenuate inflammatory responses caused by LPS challenge but not involving NF-κB activation.

Effect of Conjugated Linoleic Acid Feeding on the Growth Performance and Meat Fatty Acid Profiles in Broiler: Meta-analysis

The effect of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) feeding on growth performance and fatty acid profiles in thigh meat of broiler chicken was investigated using meta-analysis with a total of 9 studies. Overall effects were calculated by standardized mean differences between treatment (CLA fed) and control using Hedges’s adjusted g from fixed and random effect models. Meta-regression was conducted to evaluate the effect of CLA levels. Subgroups in the same study were designated according to used levels of CLA, CP levels or substituted oils in diets. The effects on final body weight, weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were investigated as growth parameters. Total saturated and unsaturated fatty acid concentrations and C16:0, C18:0, C18:2 and C18:3 concentrations in thigh meat of broiler chicken were used as fatty acid profile parameters. The overall effect of CLA feeding on final weight was negative and it was only significant in fixed effect model (p<0.01). Significantly lower weight gain, feed intake and higher feed conversion ratio compared to control were found (p<0.05). CLA feeding on the overall increased total saturated fatty acid concentration in broilers compared to the control diet (p<0.01). Total unsaturated fatty acid concentration was significantly decreased by CLA feeding (p<0.01). As for individual fatty acid profiles, C16:0, C18:0 and C18:3 were increased and C18:2 was significantly decreased by CLA feeding (p<0.01). In conclusion, CLA was proved not to be beneficial for improving growth performance, whereas it might be supposed that CLA is effective modulating n-6/n-3 fatty acids ratio in thigh meat. However, the economical compensation of the loss from suppressed growth performance and increased saturated fatty acids with the benefit from enhanced n-6/n-3 ratio should be investigated in further studies in order to propose an appropriate use of dietary CLA in the broiler industry.

The effects of conjugated linoleic acid on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and fatty acid composition of broilers fed corn dried distillers grains with solubles

This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on the growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and fatty acid composition of broilers fed corn dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS). Four hundred eighty 1-d-old broilers were randomly assigned to 4 groups, consisting of 6 replicates with 20 broilers each. Broilers were allocated 1 of 4 diets and fed for 49 d in a 2 × 2 factorial design. The dietary treatments consisted of 2 levels of DDGS (0 or 15%) and 2 levels of CLA (0 or 1%). The results of growth performance analyses showed that dietary supplementation with 1% CLA, 15% DDGS, or both in broilers had no significant effects on ADG, ADFI, and feed/gain (P > 0.05). Dietary supplementation with 15% DDGS did not significantly affect meat color values, drip loss percentage, pH value at 15 min, crude fat content, or shear force value (P > 0.05). Diets supplemented with 15% DDGS decreased the proportions of saturated fatty acids (P < 0.05) and monounsaturated fatty acids but increased the proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids of the thigh meat (P < 0.05). Diets supplemented with 1% CLA significantly decreased the abdominal fat percentage (P < 0.05). Supplementation with 1% CLA increased the crude fat content and decreased the color (b*) value and shear force value of the breast meat (P < 0.05). Diets supplemented with 1% CLA increased the total superoxide dismutase activity of the serum, breast meat, and liver, and decreased the malondialdehyde content of the serum and breast meat (P < 0.05). Supplementation with 1% CLA decreased the proportion of monounsaturated fatty acids and increased the proportion of saturated fatty acids (P < 0.05). Accumulation of CLA in the thigh meat was significantly increased (P < 0.05) with increasing CLA level in the diet. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with 1% CLA had positive effects on meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and fatty acid composition of broilers, although it had no significant effect on growth performance.

Effects of Endotoxin and Psychological Stress on Redox Physiology, Immunity and Feather Corticosterone in Greenfinches

Assessment of costs accompanying activation of immune system and related neuroendocrine pathways is essential for understanding the selective forces operating on these systems. Here we attempted to detect such costs in terms of disruption to redox balance and interference between different immune system components in captive wild-caught greenfinches (Carduelis chloris). Study birds were subjected to an endotoxin-induced inflammatory challenge and temporary exposure to a psychological stressor (an image of a predator) in a 2*2 factorial experiment. Injection of bacterial endotoxin resulted in up-regulation of two markers of antioxidant protection – erythrocyte glutathione, and plasma oxygen radical absorbance (OXY). These findings suggest that inflammatory responses alter redox homeostasis. However, no effect on markers of oxidative damage to proteins or DNA in erythrocytes could be detected. We found no evidence that the endotoxin injection interfered with antibody production against Brucella abortus antigen or the intensity of chronic coccidiosis. The hypothesis of within-immune system trade-offs as a cost of immunity was thus not supported in our model system. We showed for the first time that administration of endotoxin can reduce the level of corticosterone deposited into feathers. This finding suggests a down-regulation of the corticosterone secretion cascade due to an endotoxin-induced immune response, a phenomenon that has not been reported previously. Exposure to the predator image did not affect any of the measured physiological parameters.

Effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae extract on haematological parameters, immune function and the antioxidant defence system in breeder hens fed aflatoxin contaminated diets

The study was conducted to investigate the efficacy of Saccharomyces cerevisiae extract (SC) on haematological parameters, immune function, and the antioxidant defence system in breeder hens fed a diet contaminated with low level aflatoxin (AF). Forty-eight Ross 308 breeder hens were fed on diets containing AF (0 or 100 µg/kg) and SC (0 or 1 g/kg) in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. Red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), and platelet counts, differential leucocyte counts, blood CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ and CD5+ T cell ratios, phagocytic activity and oxidative burst of heterophils, plasma and liver catalase activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) and ascorbic acid concentrations were measured. 3. Plasma and liver MDA concentrations increased (P < 0·05), liver catalase activity decreased (P < 0·05) and total WBC count tended to decrease (P = 0·082) in hens fed the contaminated diet. WBC count, monocyte percentage, phagocytic activity and oxidative burst of heterophils increased (P < 0·05), and plasma MDA concentration tended to decrease (P = 0.088) in SC extract supplemented hens. There was a significant interaction between AF and SC on heterophil, lymphocyte, CD5+ cell percentages, and plasma catalase activity. Blood heterophil percentage decreased but lymphocyte percentage increased in hens fed on the AF contaminated diet without SC supplementation. SC supplementation counteracted the negative effect of AF on heterophils and lymphocytes. The CD5+ cell percentage decreased in unsupplemented hens fed the AF contaminated diet and this negative effect was minimised in SC supplemented hens. Plasma catalase activity increased in SC supplemented hens fed the uncontaminated diet whereas the effect of SC decreased in hens fed the AF contaminated diet. 4. The SC reduced some of the some adverse effects of AF, and improved functions of the non-specific immune system. Therefore, the SC extract which has been used for improving productive performance in birds and mammals may also be useful for modulating some of the effects of a low level, chronic dosage of AF.

Sodium butyrate maintains growth performance by regulating the immune response in broiler chickens

1. The experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary sodium butyrate on the growth performance and immune response of broiler chickens. In experiment 1, 240 1-d-old chickens were allocated into 4 dietary groups (0, 0·25, 0·50 or 1·00 g sodium butyrate/kg) with 6 replicates each. In experiment 2, 120 1-d-old chickens were fed a control diet (without sodium butyrate) or 1·00 g sodium butyrate/kg diet. Half of the chickens fed on each diet were injected intra-peritoneally with 0·5 g/kg body weight of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at 16, 18 and 20 d of age. 2. There was no effect of dietary sodium butyrate on growth performance. On d 21, serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were decreased in chickens given 1·00 g sodium butyrate/kg, serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities were significantly increased, and malondialdehyde (MDA) was decreased by dietary sodium butyrate at 0·50 or 1·00 g/kg. On d 42, serum IL-6 was markedly decreased by dietary sodium butyrate, while 1·00 g sodium butyrate/kg greatly reduced MDA and increased catalase. 3. LPS challenge significantly reduced the growth performance of chickens. Serum IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, corticosterone, alpha-1 acid glycoprotein (AGP) and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) were increased in LPS-challenged chickens. Dietary sodium butyrate supplementation maintained the body weight gain and feed intake. Sodium butyrate supplementation inhibited the increase in IL-6 and AGP in serum at 16 d of age and TNF-α, corticosterone, AGP and PGE(2) at 20 d of age. Similar inhibitory effects of sodium butyrate in serum glucose and total protein concentrations were also found at 20 d of age. 4. The results indicated that dietary sodium butyrate supplementation can improve the growth performance in chickens under stress and that this may be used to moderate the immune response and reduce tissue damage.

Elevation of tissue α-tocopherol levels by conjugated linoleic acid in C57BL/6J mice is not associated with changes in vitamin E absorption or α-carboxyethyl hydroxychroman production

OBJECTIVE

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) decreases adipose mass and increases vitamin E levels in the liver and adipose tissue in mice. The aim of the present study was to examine the mechanism by which CLA alters vitamin E levels in tissues and antioxidant activity in mice.

METHODS

C57BL/6J mice were divided into three groups and fed 5% lipid as soybean oil alone (control group), 4% soybean oil supplemented with 1% CLA (CLA group), or 5% lipid with a vitamin E supplement (VE group) for 4 wk.

RESULTS

The CLA and VE diets resulted in a significant increase in the α-tocopherol concentration in all tissues examined, i.e., the liver, kidney, testis, spleen, heart, lung, and adipose tissue (P < 0.05). Levels of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances in the kidney, testis, heart, lung, and adipose tissue were lower in the CLA and VE groups than in the control group (P < 0.05). CLA did not alter the absorption rate of vitamin E or α-carboxyethyl hydroxychromans levels in the liver and plasma. The CLA diet induced a significant increase in α-tocopherol transfer protein and mRNA levels in the liver. CLA resulted in a decrease in catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities and peroxisome proliferator α mRNA levels but had no effect on levels of mRNAs for other nuclear transcription factors in the liver.

CONCLUSION

The increase in vitamin E status in CLA-fed mice is not due to altered absorption and metabolism of vitamin E but might be related to the induction of α-tocopherol transfer protein expression in the liver. The regulation of the activities of catalase and glutathione peroxidase by CLA is not mediated by vitamin E accumulation in the liver.

Effect of dietary conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on early inflammatory responses during cutaneous wound healing

Inflammatory response is considered the most important period that regulates the entire healing process. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a class of linoleic acid positional and geometric isomers, is well known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We hypothesized that dietary CLA supplementation accelerates cutaneous wound healing by regulating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions. To investigate wound closure rates and inflammatory responses, we used a full-thickness excisional wound model after 2-week treatments with control, 0.5%, or 1% CLA-supplemented diet. Mice fed dietary CLA supplementation had reduced levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers. Moreover, the wound closure rate was improved significantly in mice fed a 1% CLA-supplemented diet during early stage of wound healing (inflammatory stage). We conclude that dietary CLA supplementation enhances the early stage of cutaneous wound healing as a result of modulating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses.